That triggers my OCD

You may all have a general idea of what triggers my OCD, but I've intentionally spared you the details.

Why?

I know I seem like an open book, but I rather not share my specific OCD triggers (whether those are words, phrases, people, places, or things).

You see, these specifics are incredibly personal and won't make sense to you. Something that may seem random and harmless to you might seem dangerous and scary to me.

And if you think about it, if my OCD is set off from YOU doing / saying the trigger, why would I ever say it MYSELF? That's why a lot of people with OCD generalize their fears. By generalizing, we are avoiding the specifics. Because in the mind of someone with OCD, saying the trigger word may spark a series of unfortunate events.

OCD is truly a fascinating disorder.

I appreciate all of my friends who insist that I be open and tell them when something triggers my OCD. And for the most part, I will let them know. However, for the more specific things that trigger my OCD, I usually won't bother mentioning them. I don't want people to censor themselves on words / topics / concepts that are otherwise meaningless to anyone but me.

Learning how to cope with my OCD when presented with certain triggers is to be worked on in therapy and by myself. You do not hold any responsibility, and I know that you are certainly not purposefully causing my anxiety!

My brain just works a little differently than yours.

And as always, thank you for understanding.